Praxinoscope Theatre, 1880.

Description

Front view, detail. This was a development of Emile Reynaud's (1844-1918) Praxinoscope, and incorporated a panel cut in the shape of a theatre-style proscenium arch. Only one figure reflected in the mirror drum could be seen through the aperture, which was covered with a piece of glas reflecting one of a range of printed scenes placed inside the lid. Thus the 'moving' figure appeared superimposed on an appropriate scene. If the light was poor, a candle with a shade could be fitted above the cylinder.